Sounkyo Gorge: Hokkaido's Majestic Canyon
Discover Hokkaido's Sounkyo Gorge: A stunning canyon with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, hot springs, and seasonal beauty in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Sounkyo Gorge, a stunning 24-kilometer canyon carved by the Ishikari River, is located in Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido. Known for its dramatic 100-meter cliffs, waterfalls, and hot springs, it's a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. The gorge is particularly beautiful in the fall when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors, and in winter, it transforms into an icy wonderland.
A brief summary to Sounkyo Gorge
- Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Sounkyo, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, JP
Local tips
- Visit in September or October for the most vibrant autumn foliage.
- Attend the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival from late January to March for a magical winter experience.
- Take the Kurodake Ropeway for panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding national park.
- Soak in the Sounkyo Onsen's hot springs for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the gorge's trails.
Getting There
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Bus
From Asahikawa Station, take a direct Dohoku Bus to Sounkyo. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around ¥2140. Buses depart every 1-3 hours. Upon arrival at the Sounkyo Bus Terminal, a free shuttle bus is available to some hotels; contact your hotel upon arrival to arrange pickup.
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Driving
From Asahikawa, drive approximately 65 km via National Route 39 to Sounkyo Gorge. The drive takes about 1 hour. Parking is available in Sounkyo, with a parking garage available. Note that parking near Momijidani Valley is limited, and it's recommended to park in Sounkyo's parking garage. During peak autumn foliage season, car travel may be restricted, with shuttle bus services available from Sounkyo Bus Terminal.
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Walking
From Sounkyo Onsen town, many attractions are within walking distance. To reach Momijidani Valley, walk about 10 minutes from the Sounkyo hot spring village. Follow the signs from the Kurodake Ropeway station towards Hotel Taisetsu and Sounkyo Prince Hotel Choyotei, then cross Tsukumo Bridge. To explore the gorge itself, a disused highway provides easy access to waterfalls and lava formations. Note that the tunnel between Obako and the waterfalls has a separated footpath but is not considered a pleasant experience.
Discover more about Sounkyo Gorge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sounkyo Gorge
0.0 km
Discover Hokkaido's Sounkyo Gorge: A stunning canyon with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, hot springs, and seasonal beauty in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Daisetsuzan Sōunkyō Kurodake Ropeway
4.8 km
Ascend Mount Kurodake via ropeway for breathtaking views, hiking, and seasonal beauty in Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido.
Asahi-dake
12.0 km
Ascend Hokkaido's highest peak for breathtaking views, alpine hikes, and volcanic hot springs in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Sugatami Station
13.3 km
Ascend to breathtaking alpine views at Sugatami Station, your gateway to Mount Asahi and the Daisetsuzan National Park in Hokkaido.
Taisetsu Lake
14.3 km
Discover Taisetsu Lake: A serene Hokkaido escape offering stunning natural beauty, hiking, and seasonal delights in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Asahidake Visitor Center
15.4 km
Explore Hokkaido's highest peak! Your gateway to Daisetsuzan National Park: hiking info, exhibits, and nature's wonders await.
Mount Ishikari
25.2 km
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Clark Horse Garden
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Asahiyama Miura Garden
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Aoi Pond
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Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum
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Mount Tokachi
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Asahikawa Station
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Ippanshadan Hojin Hokkaido Kitahiro Sight Seeing Information Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ginga Waterfall
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Soubaku Dai
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Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway
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Asahidake Ropeway
15.4 km
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Asashidake Ropeway
15.4 km
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Chishima Sakura
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Komadome Waterfall
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Namidaiwa
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Daisetsuzan National Park
28.6 km
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Kitoushi Forest Park Family Travel Village
30.4 km
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Asahiyama Zoo
35.2 km
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Fierce Animal House
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Asahiyama Park
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Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)
38.5 km
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Shirahige Waterfall
39.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Furano Jingisukan Hitsuji no Oka
52.0 km
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Sennari Shabu Shabu
62.7 km
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Rincontro
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Oshokuji to Goenkai no Mise Kumagera
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Hokkaido cuisine & Seafood BBQ "Uoman" Furano
62.8 km
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Dining Kitchen Wonder
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Yuiga Doxon
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A la Campagne
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Forum Furano
64.3 km
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Mount Cafe SOL
80.5 km
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SORA
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Forest Restaurant Nininupuri
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Altezza Tomamu
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Soup Curry Garaku
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Hoshino Resort Tomamu Hotarusutorito
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bieisenka Honten
41.8 km
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Memories of Furano - Gifts and Cafe
46.3 km
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ハーブガーデン富良野 (HERB GARDEN FURANO)
48.8 km
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Potpourri House
54.8 km
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Anpanman Shop Furano
58.2 km
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Furano Marche
63.2 km
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House of Owls
66.5 km
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Ningle Terrace Paper Crafts
66.5 km
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Furano Drama Gallery
66.5 km
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New Furano Prince Hotel Lobby Gift Shop
66.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Yoru no Doxon
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the bridge bar
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